Piergiorgio and Flaviana had been dreaming for a long time of a holiday home as an escape from the city at the weekend and in the summer. They chose Sarteano first and foremost for practical reasons, as it is just 90 minutes from their home in Rome, close to the exit from the A1 motorway and a stone’s throw from the town centre. But above all for emotional reasons. “We had been looking at this house for a year – Piergiorgio tells us – and when we finally managed to purchase it from the estate agent, Immobiliare Morgantini, our patience and firm belief were rewarded.”

The house is a second-floor apartment in Casale Oriato, a very old building named after the stream that flows past it. This imposing, carefully restored farmhouse has been divided into several residential units, yet continues to maintain its rustic appeal.

A Tuscan-scented house

As is often the case, the house proved to be love at first sight. The exposed stonework, the authentic floor tiles, the wooden roof beams and Tuscan flat tiles: it all spoke of history, tradition and a warm welcome. “We fell in love with it immediately – Flaviana and Piergiorgio confess – we felt it was meant to be from the very first moment. It gave us a very cosy, homely feeling. The building itself has a magnificent view overlooking the wood and the village of Sarteano.“

The apartment is comfortable and practical, with a large open-plan living area, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, perfect for inviting friends to stay. There is also a private, outdoor courtyard and a parking space. Restoration down to the finest detail by the company, ICERM, played a decisive part in Piergiorgio and Flaviana’s decision. “We looked at numerous, beautiful houses, but we didn’t get the same feeling we felt when we walked into this one. The detailed restoration project took infinite care to fully respect its past. And we have now added our own personal touches,” they say. Casale Oriato stands just 600 metres from Piazza Garibaldi in a tranquil, secluded position, just a short walk from all the facilities of the town centre. It offers the perfect balance and lifestyle Piergiorgio and Flaviana were looking for.

Sarteano: an authentic village

Sarteano has something very special. it is one of those rare places that have remained true to their past, a far cry from ‘tick-box’ tourism. “We found a lively town with a strong cultural identity – they explain. – You can’t take it for granted that a town with just a few thousand inhabitants will be packed with culture.“

Sarteano also lies in a strategic position that allows you to quickly reach Cetona, San Casciano dei Bagni, Città della Pieve and just a little further on, the Val d’Orcia. From here you can explore the very best both Tuscany and Umbria have to offer without foregoing peace and quiet.

A mindful, romantic choice

The couple had also looked at other places, especially in Umbria, such as Montefalco and Todi. However, Tuscany came top of the list as it was so each to reach from Rome. “We didn’t purchase as a property investment – they explain – but as an investment in wellbeing. Living a frenetic life in Rome, we had long felt the need for a slower pace with a more compassionate element. Sarteano has come up trumps. This place makes us feel good. A home that found us, rather than the other way round.“

At a time when we are always in a hurry, finding a place that encourages us to slow down, listen and live life is truly a rare luxury. Sarteano, with its honest beauty, its history and its people, is now a tremendous little corner of peace for Flaviana and Piergiorgio.